Tension rises in Benue after MACBAN chairman Ardo Muhammad and an associate were killed in an ambush while returning from a peace meeting.
The killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Muhammad, has sparked fresh concerns about security and peace efforts in parts of the state.
Muhammad and another man, identified as Yakubu Isah, were reportedly shot dead by gunmen while travelling through Otukpo Local Government Area on Friday, June 26, 2026.
The tragic incident occurred only hours after the deceased attended a peace meeting aimed at easing tensions between local communities and Fulani herders in Ohinmini Local Government Area.
The attack has raised questions about the safety of community leaders involved in conflict-resolution initiatives and the growing insecurity affecting several parts of Benue State.
According to reports, the peace meeting was convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ohinmini Local Government Area.
The gathering brought together community representatives and Fulani leaders to discuss ways of strengthening peaceful coexistence and preventing further violence in the area.
Sources familiar with the meeting said discussions were constructive, with participants expressing optimism that the dialogue would help improve relations between the affected communities.
Following the meeting, Ardo Muhammad and his associate reportedly departed for their destination, unaware that danger lay ahead.
While travelling through the Okudu area of Otukpo Local Government Area, their vehicle was allegedly intercepted by armed attackers.
Witness accounts indicate that the assailants ambushed the vehicle and opened fire, killing both occupants before fleeing the scene.
News of the attack quickly spread across neighbouring communities, triggering fear and uncertainty among residents.
The death of the senior MACBAN official has particularly generated concern because it came shortly after a meeting dedicated to promoting peace and understanding among groups that have previously experienced conflict.
Muhammad’s eldest son later confirmed the incident during a telephone interview with journalists. He stated that his father had attended the peace gathering and was returning home when the deadly attack occurred.
The family described the killing as devastating and called on authorities to ensure those responsible are identified and prosecuted.
The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, also confirmed the incident. He acknowledged that the killing had heightened tension within the local government area and surrounding communities.
According to Ogiri, residents were deeply troubled by the development, particularly because of the position held by the deceased within MACBAN and his involvement in peace-building activities.
He urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid taking actions that could worsen the security situation.
The council chairman further assured residents that security personnel had been deployed to monitor developments and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
He emphasized the need for cooperation between citizens and security agencies as investigations continue.
Providing additional details about the events leading up to the attack, Ohinmini Local Government Chairman Adole Gabriel explained that the meeting attended by the MACBAN leader was part of ongoing efforts to address lingering tensions in Ayunne community.
Gabriel noted that the area had witnessed previous incidents of violence that resulted in casualties, making dialogue between stakeholders a critical step toward restoring peace.
He disclosed that reports reaching his office suggested the meeting ended successfully, with participants agreeing on measures aimed at reducing hostilities.
The council chairman expressed shock over the killing, describing it as unfortunate and capable of undermining confidence in peace initiatives.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that those who engage in dialogue and reconciliation efforts are protected.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command has launched an investigation into the attack. Police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet confirmed that the command received reports of the incident and had commenced efforts to uncover the circumstances surrounding the killings.
Security analysts say the murder of the MACBAN chairman highlights the fragile security situation in parts of Benue, where communities have continued to grapple with violent attacks, criminal activities and recurring disputes involving farmers and herders.
For many residents, the latest incident is another reminder of the challenges facing authorities as they seek lasting solutions to insecurity.
Community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger intelligence gathering, increased security patrols and greater collaboration between local stakeholders.
The death of Ardo Muhammad has also renewed discussions about the risks faced by individuals working to bridge divisions and promote peaceful coexistence in conflict-prone areas.
As investigations continue, many observers hope the tragedy will not derail ongoing dialogue efforts designed to foster stability and mutual understanding.
With tensions still high across affected communities, residents are anxiously awaiting the outcome of police investigations. Authorities have appealed for restraint and urged citizens not to take the law into their own hands.
For now, the focus remains on identifying the attackers, delivering justice for the victims and preventing further violence.
The killing of the MACBAN chairman and his associate has left a significant void within the association and raised fresh concerns about security in Benue State.
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